IMF’s Azour on Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 Targets, Economy, Growth for 2019, OPEC+

The transcript discusses the Vision 20-30 targets, highlighting setbacks in achieving 2020 goals. It examines the growth in the non-oil sector due to reforms and the challenges of diversifying the economy. The discussion includes budget deficit projections and fiscal strategies for Saudi Arabia, uncertainties in the oil market, and the OPEC+ agreement. Regional economic challenges, including trade tensions and growth projections, are addressed. The transcript concludes with a focus on Lebanon's economic crisis and the need for reforms to restore confidence.

What were the key targets set for Vision 20-30 in 2020?

• FDI, ease of doing business, and global competitiveness

• Oil production, tourism, and education

• Military spending, agriculture, and sports

• Healthcare, infrastructure, and technology

What is one of the main challenges in diversifying Saudi's economy?

• Lack of natural resources

• Political instability

• Volatility of oil prices

• High inflation rates

What is the government's projected budget deficit for 2019?

• 4.2% of GDP

• 10% of GDP

• 6.5% of GDP

• 8% of GDP

What is a recommended step to help Saudi Arabia balance its budget by 2023?

• Reduce foreign investments

• Increase oil production

• Fiscal consolidation

• Cut public sector jobs

What is a major uncertainty affecting the oil sector's growth projections?

• Political elections

• Technological advancements

• Global warming

• OPEC plus agreement

What is a key requirement for Lebanon to restore economic confidence?

• Expansion of tourism

• Increase in oil exports

• Strong package of reforms

• Reduction in military spending

What is a potential risk mentioned for Lebanon's economy?

• Decrease in tourism

• Loss of foreign aid

• Increase in unemployment

• Collapse of the dollar peg